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5 ways the Internet of Things changes education

Ilja Postel

For decades, education meant physically attending classes. The rise of internet already revolutionised the way we follow education. The Internet of Things, consequently, will further change the way we educate ourselves.

Curious how? Here’s a look at 5 changes the internet of things brings to education.

Learn anytime, anywhere

For most of us, following a course meant sitting in a classroom. Regardless of its setting –more or less interactive– the minimum requirement to follow a teacher-led course was physical presence for a long time. This, however, is in the past: with an ever-growing number of devices connected to the internet, we no longer have to leave the house to follow a class. Following a course can be done from the comfort of your own home!

On top of this, the large number of devices connected to the internet allows us to experiment with the format of courses, making learning an increasingly more interesting experience. In 2011, Stanford University started offering MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), which set off enormous growth: nowadays, new online courses are added daily.

Work with experts worldwide

The availability of online learning did not only enable us, students, to follow education from the comfort of our own home. Digitalization in education also further globalized it, giving us the opportunity to follow courses by experts, independent of their location. The possibility to work with experts worldwide in turn has the potential to improve the quality of education we follow.

When you do attend school – your campus will be smart

By now, you may be thinking: why physically attend class at all? Rest assured: digitalization will make your campus a more exciting place, too. The smart campus may include smart parking, or have an online system that shows you where you can find empty seats in its libraries. On top of this, you won’t have to waste your time at the laundromat, as an app may tell you what machines are free or when your laundry will be done.

Improve the research you carry out

In the past, research was carried out without the help of the internet and essays were written by hand. Can you imagine? Instead, imagine all important lab instruments connected to the internet. Or smart libraries, offering you more relevant sources because of their connection to the internet. Regardless of your discipline, digital developments allow for smarter research.

Higher quality learning through data analysis

Universities strive to offer the best possible learning experience to its students. Having more devices connected to the internet that collect data, this can help universities improve student achievements and gain insight into what works and what doesn’t. Data, engineering and artificial intelligence allow for a personalized learning experience, and as a result improve your results as a student.

Learn about the Internet of Things from the comfort of your own home! Register on Academy Cube and start Cisco’s free course on the Internet of Things today.